What is the common name for primary teeth, the first set of 20 teeth?

The term "deciduous teeth" is the correct name for primary teeth, which refers to the first set of teeth that typically emerges in infants and children, generally numbering 20 in total. These teeth serve several important functions: they help children chew food, assist in speech development, and provide a space for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them.

The physiological significance of these teeth extends beyond mere childhood; "deciduous" derives from the Latin word for "to fall away," indicating their temporary nature as they are eventually lost to make way for permanent teeth. This transitional aspect is crucial during dental development, as health and care of these teeth can influence the emergence of the permanent dentition.

Other options, while related to dental terminology, do not accurately describe primary teeth. Permanent teeth refer to the second set of teeth that replace the primary teeth, usually emerging during the early teenage years. Primary teeth themselves are not called primary teeth colloquially; the common lay term is "baby teeth," but "deciduous teeth" is the proper scientific term. Molars are a specific type of tooth found in both primary and permanent sets but are not a classification for primary teeth as a whole.